Right before summer turns to fall, there’s one more magical outing to add to your calendar to help ease the transition.
Toronto will glow like never before this weekend as the iconic Water Lantern Festival makes its return to Downsview Park on Friday, September 19 and Saturday, September 20, 2025. This magical two-night celebration is expected to draw hundreds of guests from near and far for an unforgettable evening filled with live music, delicious food, family-friendly activities, along with the breathtaking release of hundreds of glowing lanterns across the water at sunset.
Guests are invited to design their own lanterns with messages, artwork, or heartfelt wishes before releasing them into the water creating a magical spectacle under the night sky.
In addition to designing floating lanterns, visitors can explore a vendor market, grab a bite from local food trucks, and even take part in a scavenger hunt before settling in for the main event. The gates will open three hours before sunset, so arrive early and take advantage of all the fun activities happening before the main event!
All lanterns are made from eco-friendly, biodegradable materials, and ticket costs include the safe cleanup and removal of lanterns from the park once the event concludes.
Tickets start at $42.99, with Early Bird pricing available until September 1. General admission includes entry to the festival, a lantern kit with decorating supplies, a tealight, a drawstring bag, and access to the scavenger hunt. For an upgraded experience, special ticket packages are also available.